Typical Development
Conditions
Brief summary
The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids on executive functions. The investigators hypothesize that participants ages 7-9 years with a ratio closer to 4:1 will do better on tests of executive function than participants with a ratio closer to the purported Western diet norm of 15:1.
Interventions
None listed
Sponsors
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Study design
Observational model
CASE_ONLY
Time perspective
CROSS_SECTIONAL
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
7 Years to 9 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
* typically-developing
Exclusion criteria
* not fluent in English
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Relation between executive function and n-6/n-3 fatty acid intake | up to 10 days | Executive function will be measured using a validated and standardized system known as CANTAB (Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery) and correlated with the ratio of fatty acid intake. 24-hour diet recalls will be completed using the NDSR (Nutrient Data System for Research) software. Across one week, the children will be interviewed 3 times (two weekdays, one weekend day) about what they ate in the previous 24 hours. The dietary data will be averaged to arrive at the n-6/n-3 intake. The children will then come to lab for one visit where they will be assessed using the CANTAB. |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Baseline | Temperament will be measured using a Rothbart written assessment completed by the caregiver. |
| Socioeconomic status | Baseline | Demographic information will be collected from caregiver using a lab-typical questionnaire. |
Countries
United States
Outcome results
None listed